Until a few years ago, the concept of tourism was intertwined with sandy beaches, the sea, some comfortable habitat in mountain destinations or a destination that includes the classic wellness options (hot baths, mud therapy, spa). However, the expansion of the tourist experience has highlighted a series of destinations invisible to the eyes of even experienced travelers. One such case is that of Kyrgyzstan.
For thousands of years, this stunning site served as a staging post along the legendary Silk Road, an overland trade route that connected the Far East to Europe. Today, places like Lake Issyk-Kul (Issyk-Kul) are a global must for hikers who organize long hiking tours. Many of them come to explore features such as Skazka Canyon, a landscape of red sandstone formations located along the southern shore of the lake, and to sleep in family-run guesthouses, swapping stories with other travelers.
Issyk-Kul is just one of the thousands of alpine lakes that dot this landlocked country, 94% of which is over 3,200 feet above sea level. At 77,200 square miles, Kyrgyzstan is one of Central Asia’s smallest nations, but it’s packed with stunning natural features, including towering mountain peaks and impressive glaciers. With an abundance of explorable outdoor spaces, it’s no wonder the country is gaining a reputation as one of the top adventure travel destinations, especially among those that involve trekking.
Here you will find the connection to the nomadic heritage of Central Asia. Although the stereotype of large nomadic communities is refuted upon arrival in the country, which sees a large part of its population settled in large and medium-sized urban centers. However, the image of nomadic wandering is still present, especially with the arrival of spring coinciding with the appearance of the yurt, the characteristic portable round tent covered with skins or felt used as a dwelling by nomads.
As part of what is defined as adventure tourism, visitors flock to the country by the thousands to participate in the construction of a yurt, among other things, which today are made of wooden or metal frames, canvas or tarpaulin, Plexiglas or even wire rope. Of course, the adventure is not only about the part of the nomadic life but also about the contact with the incomparable mountain and water beauty. In tiny Kyrgyzstan, there are 10 wildlife sanctuaries and 13 national parks, allowing visitors to get their fill of steep slopes, waterfalls and cedar-studded mountains. The Altyn Arashan valley stands out here, a magnet for thousands of hikers who want to experience up close the experience of climbing between hot springs at 3000 meters above sea level.
Starting and organizing points in your quest are the country’s largest cities, including the capital Bishkek, Osh and Karakol, all of which serve as bases for your expedition to explore the country’s rich nature.
Characteristically, Bishkek borders the Tien Shan mountain range and the Ala-Archa National Park, which stands out for its rocky paths and the famous Ak-Sai waterfall. Osh again, also known as the “capital of the south”, is the gateway to the Alai mountain range, a mountain system loved by travelers and mountaineers for its verdant plateaus.
Finally, Karakol, in the east of the country, is considered the “adventure capital”, due not only to the short distance from the aforementioned Issyk-Kul lake, but also to the proximity to one of the most charming walking paths in the world, which through 50 km leads to the beautiful, rocky lake Ala-Kul, at an altitude of 3,500 meters.
It is this combination of mountain and steppe, rock and stone, city and nomadism, with an eye firmly fixed on the highest peaks, that makes Kyrgyzstan one of the most sought-after destinations for those who want an adventure travel experience with due respect for nature and its constants.
